What are the responsibilities and job description for the Educator (Early Childhood) position at Columbus Zoo Family of Parks?
Overview
This position is responsible for creating and implementing curriculum specific to early childhood education. This includes ensuring developmentally appropriate programs and activities. Works in a collaborative, innovative, team environment.
Responsibilities
Leadership
- Leads the preschool classroom and works alongside seasonal employees to implement a play-based curriculum during the school year and summer camp.
- Ability to work with docents and adult volunteers to support and enhance on-grounds programming for toddlers and preschoolers.
- Partners with other curriculum team members to align and support programming across various educational initiatives.
- Consistently strives to further the mission of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.
Communication
- Collaborates with other departments to enhance early childhood programming through animal encounters, special guests, and unique experiences.
- Utilizes technology to enhance educational programming and support classroom engagement and communication where necessary.
- Maintains clear and consistent communication with parents and caregivers to share updates on student progress and classroom activities.
Program Design
- Designs, develops, and implements curriculum-based early childhood education programs, including Little Explorer’s Base Camp and ZooKids.
- Ensures early childhood activities are developmentally appropriate.
- Implements sustainable practice in daily tasks whenever possible.
Customer Focus
- Maintains confidential records related to program participants and billing.
Qualifications
Leadership
- Ability to maintain a positive attitude in sometimes stressful situations.
- Problem solves and adapts quickly in a variety of settings and situations.
Communication
- Ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing.
Program Design
- Knowledge of education program development.
- Demonstrated creative mindset.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Customer Focus
- The ability to provide excellent guest service by positively interacting with program participants, families, and guests.
Educational Requirements
- High school diploma or GED required, with the ability to perform essential job functions and learn new skills on the job.
- Minimum one year in relating to and teaching children ages 2-5.
- Knowledge of basic early childhood education principles.
- Annual First Aid training and annual CPR training.
Other requirements
- Flexible schedule with availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Proficiency with relevant software and technology.
- Valid Current driver’s license with a clean driving record.
- Ability to adhere to standard operating procedures including but not limited to safety protocols.
- Ability to pass TB screening, adhere to drug-free workplace policies, and complete FBI/BCI background check.
